Brandon Deaderick Scouting Report

Brandon Deaderick, DE, Alabama

Although his statistics have never been outstanding, Deaderick has improved with every season at Alabama. After redshirting in 2005, the defensive end appeared in seven games as a freshman in 2006 then played in all 13 games--starting seven--as a sophomore. Deaderick emerged (as a full-time starter in 2008) as one of the leaders of a Crimson Tide defense that was borderline dominant throughout most of the season. He recorded 36 tackles, seven quarterback hurries, 5.5 tackles for loss, and four sacks. Deaderick, who will be 23 when he makes his NFL debut next season, has the experience to step in and make an immediate impact at the next level. He has also proven to be extremely durable, so that will help his draft stock. In fact, Deaderick's first real injury in college came in bizarre--and scary--fashion. He was shot in his left arm during a robbery attempt outside his apartment complex the Monday night just prior to the start of the 2009 season. Amazingly, Deaderick was back at practice on Wednesday and played in Alabama's victory over Virginia Tech on Saturday night. While the development put a dent in Deaderick's progress, his ability to bounce back shows that he is one tough customer. In addition to his toughness, Deaderick also possesses an impressive combination of size and speed. He stands at 6'4', 296 pounds and he has been clocked under 4.90 in the 40-yard dash. He needs to work on his strength--especially upper body--as he often gets handled by the bigger offensive tackles. Deaderick has plenty of experience in the 3-4 defense, and he projects as a stellar contributor for any NFL team that uses such a formation. While he can get along just fine in a 4-3, his draft position will most likely be boosted (presumably for a team that runs the 3-4 defense) by his 3-4 specialty. Right now Deaderick looks like mid-Day 2 draft pick, but a strong finish to the season (along with a good combine) could land him in the second or third round.